Editorial: Political season already in full tilt

Friday

Mar 7, 2014 at 12:01 AMMar 7, 2014 at 7:18 PM

Love it or hate it, it’s now open season in politics. With Senate, congressional, statewide and local races on the ballot in May and again in November, it will be difficult for all but the most determined hermit to avoid being bombarded with campaign literature and political ads.

We’ve already had a taste of what’s to come, as out-of-state groups and special interests have spent millions of dollars so far in the U.S. Senate race for incumbent Democrat Kay Hagan’s seat. Americans For Prosperity, a conservative group, has spent $8 million so far. Meanwhile the pro-Democrat group Patriot Majority USA is bankrolling ads targeting N.C. House Speaker Thom Tillis, who is vying for the Republican nomination.

With out-of-state money pouring into campaigns on both sides, expect more negativity than ever.

The Citizens United ruling in 2010 leveled the playing field to allow corporations to spend in support of specific candidates — as long as it’s not “coordinated” with the candidate’s campaign. The money is often funneled to nonprofit organizations that are allowed broad exemptions to the usual campaign finance rules.

Although the U.S. Senate and congressional races will command statewide attention in the coming months, some of the most important races are those at the local level — they’re generally the most civil as well.

In Cleveland County we have races for U.S. House, state senate, state representatives for District 110 and 111, sheriff, district attorney, judge, county commissioners and clerk of superior court. Each election for those offices will have an impact on our daily lives.

Most of us have an idea of the type of community and state we want to live in, and we know the traits, leadership skills and knowledge we seek in an elected official.

How do we find the candidate that most closely matches our vision? Information — a little healthy skepticism doesn’t hurt, either.

The Star does not endorse candidates; however, that doesn’t mean we won’t pay attention to and comment on campaigns and the issues.

The Star along with other media will cover the candidates, campaigns and the issues — but voters shouldn’t stop there. No amount of news coverage is an adequate substitute for a person doing his or her own research based on what they deem to be the important issues. Many candidates have their own websites or other active social-media presence. Several groups hold debates, forums or informal events where people can talk face to face with the candidates. It’s an old-fashioned yet effective way to gain some insight into the people who want to spend our money, keep us safe or set policy governing our children’s education.

Candidates and their backers will work hard trying to influence your vote. But your vote belongs to you — use it wisely.